British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy findings trigger ‘No More Stiff Upper Lip’ campaign
More than two-thirds of women over 50 in the West Midlands have struggled with their mental wellbeing since hitting the half-century mark, a study has found.
A survey of 2,000 UK women by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) discovered 68% in the West Midlands region reported difficulties, with 85% saying they take active steps to hide their struggles.
The research highlights an “epidemic of silence” across the UK around midlife mental health challenges, the BACP said.
This comes Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows suicide rates among women at the following levels: 7.9 per 100,000 for women aged 45-49, 6.9 for 50-54 and 7.5 for 55-59.
Among those struggling in the West Midlands, 57% told of ongoing lack of sleep, 59% increased anxiety, 37% avoidance of social events and 44% reported a loss of motivation.
Key drivers included brain fog (41%), physical health changes (41%), menopause (33%) and bereavement (39%).
BACP has launched its ‘No More Stiff Upper Lip’ campaign encouraging women to speak openly about their struggles.
‘Therapy can be life-changing – please don’t suffer in silence’
The campaign features a limited-edition lipstick collection with shades named Unapologetic, Resilient, Empowered and Heard – photographed by Rankin and modelled by women who have benefited from therapy, including campaign ambassador Lorraine Pascale.
“Many women over 50 feel they need to stay quiet and ‘hold it together’, when they really may be struggling,” said Pascale.
“Support from a registered therapist has really supported me to feel more confident and tackle challenges thrown my way.”
BACP-registered therapist Jodie McCormack, from Birmingham, added: “Therapy can be life-changing. Please don’t suffer in silence.”
For more information, visit: nomorestiffupperlip.co.uk.
